Shuttlers Pillai, Dey triumph in Bahrain

NAGPUR: Maharashtra shuttlers Riya Pillai and Subhankar Dey performed well to emerge singles champions in the Bahrain International Badminton Series which concluded at Isa Town, Bahrain, on Saturday.
While it was Pillai's maiden international title, Dey made it two in-a-row having won his first overseas title at the same venue last year.
The 20-year-old Pillai of Mumbai lived up to her top billing and clinched the title in style.Pillai, world No. 205, outclassed second seed Elisabeth Baldauf of Austria 21-18, 21-12 in 40 minutes in the women's singles final.
Earlier in the semifinal, Pillai prevailed over Uzbekistan's Surayyo Ahmadjonova 21-12, 21-7.
Dey's path was not easy. He had to stretch himself fully to retain his title. Second seed Dey had to dig deep to oust third seed Dinuka Karunaratna of Sri Lanka. In an exciting final, Dey, who represents Pune district, won three-game thriller 21-19 13-21, 21-11 in an hour and 7 minutes.
The world No. 106, steamrolled local boy and fourth seed Heri Setiawan 21-13, 21-9 in the semis.
Both Pillai and Dey train under experienced coach Tom John at Bangalore.
"I am absolutely thrilled to win my first international title. It was the much-needed break for my career. I hope this win will boost my confidence for future tournaments," said Pillai.
Dey, who represented Hyderabad Heroes in the Indian Badminton League, said he was determined to retain his title.